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What are all-season tyres?
All-season tyres (sometimes called four-season tyres) are designed to be used all year round, with a compound and tread pattern halfway between a summer tyre and a winter tyre.
They can be recognised by the markings on the sidewall: many carry M+S (Mud and Snow) and, increasingly often, the 3PMSF symbol (three-peak mountain with a snowflake), which indicates snow performance verified by testing.
What are the advantages of all-season tyres?
The main advantage is convenience: one set of tyres, with no seasonal changeover and no need to store a second set.
- No deadlines: you do not have to remember to change tyres every season.
- Winter requirement: with the M+S or 3PMSF marking they meet the requirements where these apply (see winter tyres or snow chains requirement).
- Versatility: they cope well with cold, rain and occasional snow.
- No space needed to store the second set.
What are the disadvantages?
The disadvantage is that, like any compromise, they do not match the performance of dedicated tyres in the most extreme conditions.
- Summer: in intense heat, a good summer tyre generally offers better braking and precision.
- Harsh winters: on heavy snow and ice, a good winter tyre remains superior.
- Wear: because they work all year round, in some conditions they may wear faster than a tyre used only in its own season.
Who are all-season tyres suited to?
They are mainly suited to people who drive in towns or on flat land, cover average mileages and face mild winters with occasional snow.
| Usage profile | Often the more suitable choice |
|---|---|
| Urban use, flat land, mild winters | All-season |
| Frequent mountain driving, heavy snow | Winter tyres in winter + summer tyres in summer |
| Very high mileage, sporty driving, very hot summers | Seasonal tyres |
An area like Milan and the Lombardy plain, where snow is occasional but the winter requirement applies on many roads, is often cited as typical all-season territory. Still, consider the journeys you actually make.
How do you choose a good all-season tyre?
To choose a good all-season tyre, start from your car's approved size and compare the markings and the EU tyre label.
- Check the size, load index and speed rating in the registration document (see how to read your tyre size).
- Choose models with the 3PMSF symbol if you want verified snow performance.
- Compare wet grip, efficiency and noise on the EU tyre label.
- Change them in pairs per axle, as explained in one tyre or two.
Puncture on all-season tyres in Milan?
All-season tyres are repaired and replaced like any other tyre: the same rules on whether the damage can be repaired apply. If you are stuck with a flat tyre in Milan or its province, SOS Tyre comes out 24/7, in 30 minutes on average, to wherever the vehicle is.
Call +39 377 326 0999 or fill in the request for assistance, giving the tyre size. If you want to schedule fitting all-season tyres, you can book a tyre change at your home.
Frequently asked questions
Do all-season tyres meet the winter tyre requirement?
Yes, if the sidewall carries the M+S marking or the 3PMSF symbol: where the requirement applies in Italy, from 15 November to 15 April, they count as winter tyres as an alternative to carrying chains. Always check the marking on your tyre's sidewall.
What is the difference between M+S and 3PMSF?
M+S (Mud and Snow) is a marking declared by the manufacturer for mud and snow. The 3PMSF symbol, the three-peak mountain with a snowflake, shows that the tyre has passed a snow grip test. For verified winter performance, 3PMSF is the more reliable reference.
Do all-season tyres use more fuel?
Not necessarily. Fuel consumption depends on the rolling resistance of the individual model, shown by the energy efficiency class on the EU tyre label. Compare that class between the models you are interested in and always keep the pressure specified by the manufacturer.
Can I fit all-season tyres on just one axle?
Mixing different types of tyre on a car is not advisable, and where the winter requirement applies you need winter tyres on all wheels or chains on board. For balanced handling, fit the same type of tyre on all four wheels.